I'd like to try my hand at metal checkering and need some advice. I plan to practice on some small scrap rifle parts to learn and eventually if confident enough actually checker bolt releases and bolt handle knobs. I'd like to start out with one metal checkering file and I am looking for advice on which LPI to go with?

Second question is that I am looking for someone who can case color a Winchester bolt action cocking piece? Way beyond my learning horizon for now.

Some say the 20lpi is not fine enough, but 30lpi is too fine, and 40lpi is like none at all. Para does 25lpi on the front strap of 1911's. I would try that first, and see if it is what would work best. Good luck.

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Former President of the ECPT (Eifel Combat Pistol Team)

Anything from 24-28 LPI will be about right. Personally I like 24LPI. Too course and you'll shred your skin. Too fine and it won't do any good. It matters whether the part is going to be moving with your grip on it (bolt handle) or stationary (frontstrap). Generally moving parts need a finer checkering.

Thanks....I will try practicing with a good quality triangular wood checkering file first. If I feel confident enough I'll invest in one of the metal checkering files from Brownells or Midway. Probably a 30 LPI.